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Restoration All Charters of ICOMOS. http://www.international.icomos.org/charters/charters.pdf ICOMOS Charters
International Charter for the Conservation and Restoration of Monuments and Sites (Venice Charter 1964)
Historic Gardens (Florence Charter 1981) Charter for the Conservation of Historic Towns and Urban Areas (Washington
Charter 1987) Charter for the Protection and Management of the Archaeological Heritage
(1990) Charter on the Protection and Management of Underwater Cultural Heritage
(1996) International Cultural Tourism Charter (1999) Charter on the Built Vernacular Heritage (1999) Principles for the Preservation of Historic Timber Structures (1999) ICOMOS Charter – Principles for the analysis, conservation and structural
restoration of architectural heritage (2003) ICOMOS Principles for the preservation and conservation / restoration of wall
paintings (2003) Other Documents
Guidelines on Education and Training in the Conservation of Monuments, Ensembles and Sites (1993)
Nara Document on Authenticity (1994)
International Charters for the Conservation and Restoration
2
Principles for the Recording of Monuments, Groups of Buildings and Sites (1996)
Stockholm Declaration (1998) ICOMOS (1931). The Athens Charter. http://www.icomos.org/docs/athens_charter.html UNESCO (1972). Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Heritage and Natural Heritage. http://whc.unesco.org/archive/convention-en.pdf ICOMOS (1997). UK Statement of Principles for the Balanced Development of Cultural Tourism. The Australia ICOMOS (1999), The Burra Charter – Charter for the Conservation of Places of Cultural Significance. http://www.icomos.org/australia/burra.html UNESCO (2003). Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage. http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0013/001325/132540e.pdf
International Charters for the Conservation and Restoration
3
All Charters of ICOMOS
International Council on Monuments and Sites This document is a compilation of 14 articles from 1964 to 2003, aimed to reflect problems and concerns relevant to working with heritage conservation and historic monuments. It contains basic principles and guidelines addressing specific issues faced in contemporary society. There is an exhaustive range of information, recommendations and suggestions on general theory and practice. The focus ranges from excavation and documentation, to restoration and conservation, to management and education. (1964-2003)
International Charters for the Conservation and Restoration
4
International Charter for the Conservation and Restoration of Monuments and Sites
(The Venice Charter 1964) 2nd International Congress of Architects and Technicians of Historic Monuments
International Council on Monuments and Sites
The discussion is becoming increasingly complex and new multifaceted problems regularly surface in working with monuments and historic sites. The importance of historic monuments is not to be forgotten, as these have acquired cultural significance through the passing of time, providing a living witness to age-old traditions of a past civilization. A set of guiding principles were evaluated at the Congress to assist with the proper treatment of conservation and restoration of monuments and historic sites, whilst limiting the modification demanded by social changes, within a framework of the culture itself.
5
Historic Gardens (The Florence Charter 1981)
Adopted by ICOMOS in December 1982
International Council on Monuments and Sites This article is a compilation of the recommendations adopted by ICOMOS applicable to the maintenance, restoration and reconstruction, of all historic gardens across the world. It includes the definitions and objectives of the international committee; maintenance, conservation, restoration, reconstruction of historic gardens; and the legal and administrative documentation involved in the protection of the gardens. A historic garden is an expression of affinity between civilization and nature, where a horticultural composition is achieved through refined botanical and horticultural practices. Gardens are primarily vegetal and therefore living; reflecting the perpetual cycle of the seasons, and the growth and decay of nature, and the desire of the artist and craftsmen to keep it maintained, and permanently unchanged by achieving ecological equilibrium.
6
Charter for the Conservation of Historic Town and Urban Areas (Washington Charter 1987)
Adopted by ICOMOS General Assembly in Washington, DC, October 1987
International Council on Monuments and Sites This article defines the principles, objectives and methods necessary for the conservation of historic towns and urban areas. It seeks to promote the harmony of both private and community life in these areas and encourages the preservation of those cultural properties, however modest in scale, that constitute the collective memory of a particular society. A multidisciplinary study formed the basis of the urban and regional planning scheme to ensure the harmonious adaptation to and protection of historic towns and urban areas in contemporary life.
7
Charter for the Protection and Management of the Archeological Heritage (1990) Prepared by the International Committee for the Management of Archaeological
Heritage (ICAHM) and approved by the 9th General Assembly in Lausanne in 1990
International Council on Monuments and Sites
Archaeological heritage is a fragile and non-renewable cultural resource constituting a vital part of indigenous people’s living traditions. It is essential to protect these sites and their continued protection and preservation is ensured by a set of guidelines drawn up at the General Assembly. Given the co-dependence of human history and heritage, the emphasis is to acquire an understanding on the history of the indigenous people, in order to wholly appreciate archeological heritage, and the significance of monuments and sites. There is also a moral obligation for heritage protection and legislation should make provision for the proper maintenance, management and conservation of archaeological heritage. As international cooperation becomes integral, professional conduct and training needs to be maintained.
8
Charter on the Protection and Management of Underwater Cultural Heritage Ratified by the 11th ICOMOS General Assembly
in Sofia, Bulgaria, October 1996
International Council on Monuments and Sites Underwater cultural heritage is often threatened by undesirable commercial intentions. These environments include submerged sites and structures, wreckage and their archaeological and natural context. As a product of the General Assembly, this article emphasises the scientific integrity of the processes and methods used to ensure the protection and management of cultural heritage sites. International cooperation and intellectual exchange is hence vital to facilitate the project's successful implementation. A series of guiding methodology follows the entire investigation process, from the necessary channels involved, such as project design, funding, documentation, analysis, site management, reporting and dissemination.
International Charters for the Conservation and Restoration
9
International Cultural Tourism Charter Managing Tourism at Places of Heritage Significance
Adopted by ICOMOS at the 12th General Assembly in Mexico, October 1999
International Council on Monuments and Sites The dynamic interaction between tourism and cultural heritage offers an array of potentially conflicting expectations and opportunities for a host community. Tourism has become an increasingly complex phenomenon, with political, economic, social cultural, education, bio-physical, ecological and aesthetic dimensions. Sustainable approaches are sought to develop tourism and infrastructure in a manner that highlights authentic visitor experiences. While cultural changes in vernacular society become inevitable, the priority remains unchanged. This is to protect the rights and interests of traditional customs of the indigenious people and the significance of heritage through conservational endeavors.
10
Charter on the Built Vernacular Heritage Ratified by the 12th ICOMOS General Assembly, in Mexico, October 1999
International Council on Monuments and Sites
Built vernacular heritage is an attractive product of society, fabricated by the work of human hands which has achieved value over its time. It is a fundamental expression of the culture and the pride of all peoples, offering a rich insight into the social and environmental patterns of a region. This article outlines the Charter’s principles towards the protection of our built vernacular heritage. Due to the vulnerability and degradation of such cultural landscapes, ways to retain, record and reinstate the regional character is a priority. The following recommendations are made by the Assembly, advising the careful documentation of its pre-existing conditions before any treatment and intervention takes place. It suggested adopting a thorough understanding of the site and the cultural landscape as well as learning the traditional building systems, including construction skills and way materials are prepared. Principles of conservation and guidelines in practice, describe approaches to conduct research and documentation, adaption and reuse, educational training, restoration and conservation works. Education programs are responsible to arouse public interest towards an awareness of the issues pertaining to the conservation and restoration of vernacular traditions.
11
Principles for the Preservation of Historic Timber Structures Ratified by the12th ICOMOS General Assembly, in Mexico, October 1999
International Council on Monuments and Sites
Timber is a culturally significant material commonly associated with historic structures. This article recognizes that historic structures are imperative to maintain authenticity and cultural heritage, and through its preservation, the principles and practices that underpin the protection of timber structures need to be understood. A coherent and regular monitoring strategy is one of the recommendations for the protection of timber structures. While in the restoration and maintenance process, new materials should be disguisable from what is pre-existing. Proposed intervention should follow traditional means, and be reversible, if technically possible, and must not hinder the later access to historic evidences in the structure. In the repair of historic timber structures, only appropriately selected timbers from forest or woodland reserves are encouraged. Continuous education and training should further develop the understanding between related professions behind preservation work.
12
ICOMOS Charter- Principles for the Analysis, Conservation and Structural Restoration of Architectural Heritage (2003)
Ratified by the 14th ICOMOS General Assembly in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, in 2003
International Council on Monuments and Sites
Structures are an essential part of architectural heritage. While care is taken to maintain deteriorated structures rather than replace them, a number of challenges are met when repair work occurs in a cultural context. Now the restoration-conservation work usually coincides with legal codes and modern building standards. A basic guide to conservation and restoration work is outlined in the article, offering some recommendations. Within a multi-disciplinary framework, it describes the importance of maintaining the integrity of components, the specific use and limitation of building technology, while emphasizing that safety is a priority, in the restoration process.
13
ICOMOS Principles for the Preservation and Conservation-Restoration of Wall Paintings
Ratified by the 14th ICOMOS General Assembly, in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe in 2003
International Council on Monuments and Sites
Wall paintings represent a significant part of a culture’s aesthetic freedoms, whilst also serving as a reminder of the diversity of materials and technology available in its time. This article presents the principles set out by ICOMOS at the Assembly in 2003, with its main focus on the conservation-restoration treatments. It presents the aims of restoration, the implementation of various bodies of knowledge in each stage of the treatment and the contribution of relevant authorities. Also included are the policies and laws to prohibit and protect the alteration of wall paintings, scholarly conventions to investigate the historic, aesthetic and technical dimensions, analytical documentation methods, appropriate monitoring, maintenance, and damage prevention, dissemination of knowledge and the specialized training required to work with heritage preservation
14
Guidelines on Education and Training in the Conservation of Monuments, Ensembles and Sites
(1993)
International Council on Monuments and Sites Education plays a crucial role to impart knowledge to those who are in a direct or indirect relation with cultural heritage. The Charter acknowledges the need to deepen the general sense of cultural consciousness, and to safeguard and prolong the life of cultural heritage. Recommendations and guidelines operate as a basis for such activities, while variations depend on local traditions, legislation, the administrative and economic context of each region. Conservation requires good communication and coordinated action, supported by the input of interdisciplinary specialists, including academics and craftsmen. Attitudes and approaches to the conservation of cultural property include training in disaster preparedness and ways to strengthen and improve security measures. Long term and short term courses and international exchanges involving teachers, students and professionals are encouraged.
15
The Nara Document on Authenticity (1994)
International Council on Monuments and Sites
The ability to verify and authenticate ideas and issues concerning cultural identity and conservation works is of great relevance. Depending on the nature of the cultural heritage, its cultural context and its evolution through time, authenticity judgments may be linked to the great variety of sources of information, and the requirement of scientific analysis to provide supporting evidence. At the 1994 World Heritage Convention held in Nara, Japan, the International Council continued to address the concerns and interests built in the spirit of Venice. It highlighted the irreplaceable nature of cultural heritage, as a source of spiritual, cultural and intellectual property, and our obligations for its protection. An appendix supplements this article, with a list of follow up suggestions and definitions of conservation and information sources.
16
Principles for the Recording of Monuments, Groups of Building and Site Ratified by the 11th ICOMOS General Assembly in Sofia, Bulgaria,
October 1996
International Council on Monuments and Sites Recording is among the principal ways of understanding the unique expressions found in cultural heritage. It serves as an essential element in understanding the framework of human development, and promotes the interest and involvement of people in the preservation of heritage. This article identifies the importance of recording, with a guideline on the planning and recording process, followed by a series of suggestions on the management, dissemination and sharing of records. The various forms of records include photographs, surveys, drawings, photographs, descriptions, accounts, published and unpublished documents.
International Charters for the Conservation and Restoration
17
Declaration of ICOMOS Marking the 50th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of the Human Rights
Stockholm Declaration 1998
International Council on Monuments and Sites The Universal Declaration of the Human Rights recognized the rights of people to freely participate in cultural activities. The responsibilities of individuals and the communities, the institutions and state, were started. Their role is to protect the current rights and preserve the future rights of individuals and the community. In protecting human rights, it affirms the major role of cultural heritage in the life of people. This will ensure the protection of cultural heritage whilst respecting cultural diversity at the same time.
18
The Athens Charter for the Restoration of Historic Monuments Adopted at the First International Congress of Architects and Technicians of
Historic Monuments, Athens 1931
International Council on Monuments and Sites This article presents seven main resolutions – i.e. Carta Del Restauro and a summarized account of the conclusions made at the Athens Congress. These include doctrines and general principles related to the protection of monuments, administrative and legislative measures regarding the historic monuments, aesthetic enhancements of ancient monuments, information on the restoration of monuments, taking precautionary measures to address the deterioration of ancient monuments, the technique of conservation, the conservation of monuments and importance of international cooperation. Customary practices and principles on excavation, protection, conservation and restoration of monuments and historic sites were discussed, reviewed and disseminated along with the strategies of intellectual collaboration and the promotion of contextual artistic and historic values through community heritage education.
Carta Del Restauro
19
Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage
1972
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization This document was prepared in response to the recent interest towards the protection of the world cultural and natural heritage. It presents a list of detailed descriptions of the terms and principles; the methods of applying for funding, and the conditions for international assistance in documenting and conserving cultural and natural heritage. The classification of cultural heritage broadly covers monuments, buildings and sites, while natural heritage relates to biological formations, natural features, geological environments and habitats of threatened species and animals. The role of the UNESCO in organizing this Convention is to ensure the proper identification, protection, conservation, presentation and transmission of cultural and natural heritage for future generations.
20
ICOMOS UK Statement of Principles for the Balanced Development of Cultural Tourism
1997
International Council on Monuments and Sites Cultural tourism provides a solid framework for local communities to expand and develop. The potential contribution of tourism is threefold, benefiting the community, the place and the visitors. Tourism should be recognized as having long-term benefits, so as to be enjoyed by future generations. While mass tourism generates a large source of employment, such economic growth may encourage expansion, so the focus of the paper is geared toward sustainable patterns. Proper treatment of the environment and its resources are highlighted in this article. In particular, an emphasis on the sensitive management of cultural tourism, the avoidance of short-term considerations and the creation of harmony between the community and its visitors is presented. Overall, in the development of tourism, a community ought to continue to explore ways to avoid jeopardizing the natural environment and manmade environment.
21
Burra Charter 1999 The Australian ICOMOS Charter for the Conservation of Places
of Cultural Significance
International Council on Monuments and Sites Revised in 1999 and based on the knowledge and experience of its ICOMOS members, the Burra Chapter provides guidance for the conservation and management of places of cultural significance (cultural heritage places) in Australia. This revision takes into account, the most up-to-date advancements in working with heritage conservation while adopting the insights and involvement of those who have strong associations with a place. The document contains three parts, definitions, conservation principles and conservation processes, with a particular emphasis on management and protection. A flowchart of the Burra Charter Process is presented at the end of this document. This chart has been devised to facilitate decision-making of heritage places and it describes a step by step process of understanding, identifying, recording and monitoring places of heritage significance.
1999
22
2003
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization This document was prepared in consequence to the recent interest and attention towards the safeguarding of the intangible cultural heritage, which led to the UNESCO Convention in 2003. The significance of this topic is highlighted by the fact a Convention was held, to discuss ways to overcome the contemporary obstacles hindering the safeguarding process. Presented in this document, is a series of definitions and elaborated principles, used in the classification process of intangible cultural heritage. It recognizes the typical circumstances faced by the local community, the state, and internationally, such as the deficiency of resources, both division of labor and funds, required for the proper maintenance and management. This guideline hence stipulates the need to promote and to raise the awareness of heritage issues and also to stimulate the interest of both the individual and community. The guideline also pinpoints the issues concerning viability, identification and future protection of intangible cultural heritage.
Restoration All Charters of ICOMOS. http://www.international.icomos.org/charters/charters.pdf ICOMOS Charters
International Charter for the Conservation and Restoration of Monuments and Sites (Venice Charter 1964)
Historic Gardens (Florence Charter 1981) Charter for the Conservation of Historic Towns and Urban Areas (Washington
Charter 1987) Charter for the Protection and Management of the Archaeological Heritage
(1990) Charter on the Protection and Management of Underwater Cultural Heritage
(1996) International Cultural Tourism Charter (1999) Charter on the Built Vernacular Heritage (1999) Principles for the Preservation of Historic Timber Structures (1999) ICOMOS Charter – Principles for the analysis, conservation and structural
restoration of architectural heritage (2003) ICOMOS Principles for the preservation and conservation / restoration of wall
paintings (2003) Other Documents
Guidelines on Education and Training in the Conservation of Monuments, Ensembles and Sites (1993)
Nara Document on Authenticity (1994)
International Charters for the Conservation and Restoration
2
Principles for the Recording of Monuments, Groups of Buildings and Sites (1996)
Stockholm Declaration (1998) ICOMOS (1931). The Athens Charter. http://www.icomos.org/docs/athens_charter.html UNESCO (1972). Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Heritage and Natural Heritage. http://whc.unesco.org/archive/convention-en.pdf ICOMOS (1997). UK Statement of Principles for the Balanced Development of Cultural Tourism. The Australia ICOMOS (1999), The Burra Charter – Charter for the Conservation of Places of Cultural Significance. http://www.icomos.org/australia/burra.html UNESCO (2003). Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage. http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0013/001325/132540e.pdf
International Charters for the Conservation and Restoration
3
All Charters of ICOMOS
International Council on Monuments and Sites This document is a compilation of 14 articles from 1964 to 2003, aimed to reflect problems and concerns relevant to working with heritage conservation and historic monuments. It contains basic principles and guidelines addressing specific issues faced in contemporary society. There is an exhaustive range of information, recommendations and suggestions on general theory and practice. The focus ranges from excavation and documentation, to restoration and conservation, to management and education. (1964-2003)
International Charters for the Conservation and Restoration
4
International Charter for the Conservation and Restoration of Monuments and Sites
(The Venice Charter 1964) 2nd International Congress of Architects and Technicians of Historic Monuments
International Council on Monuments and Sites
The discussion is becoming increasingly complex and new multifaceted problems regularly surface in working with monuments and historic sites. The importance of historic monuments is not to be forgotten, as these have acquired cultural significance through the passing of time, providing a living witness to age-old traditions of a past civilization. A set of guiding principles were evaluated at the Congress to assist with the proper treatment of conservation and restoration of monuments and historic sites, whilst limiting the modification demanded by social changes, within a framework of the culture itself.
5
Historic Gardens (The Florence Charter 1981)
Adopted by ICOMOS in December 1982
International Council on Monuments and Sites This article is a compilation of the recommendations adopted by ICOMOS applicable to the maintenance, restoration and reconstruction, of all historic gardens across the world. It includes the definitions and objectives of the international committee; maintenance, conservation, restoration, reconstruction of historic gardens; and the legal and administrative documentation involved in the protection of the gardens. A historic garden is an expression of affinity between civilization and nature, where a horticultural composition is achieved through refined botanical and horticultural practices. Gardens are primarily vegetal and therefore living; reflecting the perpetual cycle of the seasons, and the growth and decay of nature, and the desire of the artist and craftsmen to keep it maintained, and permanently unchanged by achieving ecological equilibrium.
6
Charter for the Conservation of Historic Town and Urban Areas (Washington Charter 1987)
Adopted by ICOMOS General Assembly in Washington, DC, October 1987
International Council on Monuments and Sites This article defines the principles, objectives and methods necessary for the conservation of historic towns and urban areas. It seeks to promote the harmony of both private and community life in these areas and encourages the preservation of those cultural properties, however modest in scale, that constitute the collective memory of a particular society. A multidisciplinary study formed the basis of the urban and regional planning scheme to ensure the harmonious adaptation to and protection of historic towns and urban areas in contemporary life.
7
Charter for the Protection and Management of the Archeological Heritage (1990) Prepared by the International Committee for the Management of Archaeological
Heritage (ICAHM) and approved by the 9th General Assembly in Lausanne in 1990
International Council on Monuments and Sites
Archaeological heritage is a fragile and non-renewable cultural resource constituting a vital part of indigenous people’s living traditions. It is essential to protect these sites and their continued protection and preservation is ensured by a set of guidelines drawn up at the General Assembly. Given the co-dependence of human history and heritage, the emphasis is to acquire an understanding on the history of the indigenous people, in order to wholly appreciate archeological heritage, and the significance of monuments and sites. There is also a moral obligation for heritage protection and legislation should make provision for the proper maintenance, management and conservation of archaeological heritage. As international cooperation becomes integral, professional conduct and training needs to be maintained.
8
Charter on the Protection and Management of Underwater Cultural Heritage Ratified by the 11th ICOMOS General Assembly
in Sofia, Bulgaria, October 1996
International Council on Monuments and Sites Underwater cultural heritage is often threatened by undesirable commercial intentions. These environments include submerged sites and structures, wreckage and their archaeological and natural context. As a product of the General Assembly, this article emphasises the scientific integrity of the processes and methods used to ensure the protection and management of cultural heritage sites. International cooperation and intellectual exchange is hence vital to facilitate the project's successful implementation. A series of guiding methodology follows the entire investigation process, from the necessary channels involved, such as project design, funding, documentation, analysis, site management, reporting and dissemination.
International Charters for the Conservation and Restoration
9
International Cultural Tourism Charter Managing Tourism at Places of Heritage Significance
Adopted by ICOMOS at the 12th General Assembly in Mexico, October 1999
International Council on Monuments and Sites The dynamic interaction between tourism and cultural heritage offers an array of potentially conflicting expectations and opportunities for a host community. Tourism has become an increasingly complex phenomenon, with political, economic, social cultural, education, bio-physical, ecological and aesthetic dimensions. Sustainable approaches are sought to develop tourism and infrastructure in a manner that highlights authentic visitor experiences. While cultural changes in vernacular society become inevitable, the priority remains unchanged. This is to protect the rights and interests of traditional customs of the indigenious people and the significance of heritage through conservational endeavors.
10
Charter on the Built Vernacular Heritage Ratified by the 12th ICOMOS General Assembly, in Mexico, October 1999
International Council on Monuments and Sites
Built vernacular heritage is an attractive product of society, fabricated by the work of human hands which has achieved value over its time. It is a fundamental expression of the culture and the pride of all peoples, offering a rich insight into the social and environmental patterns of a region. This article outlines the Charter’s principles towards the protection of our built vernacular heritage. Due to the vulnerability and degradation of such cultural landscapes, ways to retain, record and reinstate the regional character is a priority. The following recommendations are made by the Assembly, advising the careful documentation of its pre-existing conditions before any treatment and intervention takes place. It suggested adopting a thorough understanding of the site and the cultural landscape as well as learning the traditional building systems, including construction skills and way materials are prepared. Principles of conservation and guidelines in practice, describe approaches to conduct research and documentation, adaption and reuse, educational training, restoration and conservation works. Education programs are responsible to arouse public interest towards an awareness of the issues pertaining to the conservation and restoration of vernacular traditions.
11
Principles for the Preservation of Historic Timber Structures Ratified by the12th ICOMOS General Assembly, in Mexico, October 1999
International Council on Monuments and Sites
Timber is a culturally significant material commonly associated with historic structures. This article recognizes that historic structures are imperative to maintain authenticity and cultural heritage, and through its preservation, the principles and practices that underpin the protection of timber structures need to be understood. A coherent and regular monitoring strategy is one of the recommendations for the protection of timber structures. While in the restoration and maintenance process, new materials should be disguisable from what is pre-existing. Proposed intervention should follow traditional means, and be reversible, if technically possible, and must not hinder the later access to historic evidences in the structure. In the repair of historic timber structures, only appropriately selected timbers from forest or woodland reserves are encouraged. Continuous education and training should further develop the understanding between related professions behind preservation work.
12
ICOMOS Charter- Principles for the Analysis, Conservation and Structural Restoration of Architectural Heritage (2003)
Ratified by the 14th ICOMOS General Assembly in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, in 2003
International Council on Monuments and Sites
Structures are an essential part of architectural heritage. While care is taken to maintain deteriorated structures rather than replace them, a number of challenges are met when repair work occurs in a cultural context. Now the restoration-conservation work usually coincides with legal codes and modern building standards. A basic guide to conservation and restoration work is outlined in the article, offering some recommendations. Within a multi-disciplinary framework, it describes the importance of maintaining the integrity of components, the specific use and limitation of building technology, while emphasizing that safety is a priority, in the restoration process.
13
ICOMOS Principles for the Preservation and Conservation-Restoration of Wall Paintings
Ratified by the 14th ICOMOS General Assembly, in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe in 2003
International Council on Monuments and Sites
Wall paintings represent a significant part of a culture’s aesthetic freedoms, whilst also serving as a reminder of the diversity of materials and technology available in its time. This article presents the principles set out by ICOMOS at the Assembly in 2003, with its main focus on the conservation-restoration treatments. It presents the aims of restoration, the implementation of various bodies of knowledge in each stage of the treatment and the contribution of relevant authorities. Also included are the policies and laws to prohibit and protect the alteration of wall paintings, scholarly conventions to investigate the historic, aesthetic and technical dimensions, analytical documentation methods, appropriate monitoring, maintenance, and damage prevention, dissemination of knowledge and the specialized training required to work with heritage preservation
14
Guidelines on Education and Training in the Conservation of Monuments, Ensembles and Sites
(1993)
International Council on Monuments and Sites Education plays a crucial role to impart knowledge to those who are in a direct or indirect relation with cultural heritage. The Charter acknowledges the need to deepen the general sense of cultural consciousness, and to safeguard and prolong the life of cultural heritage. Recommendations and guidelines operate as a basis for such activities, while variations depend on local traditions, legislation, the administrative and economic context of each region. Conservation requires good communication and coordinated action, supported by the input of interdisciplinary specialists, including academics and craftsmen. Attitudes and approaches to the conservation of cultural property include training in disaster preparedness and ways to strengthen and improve security measures. Long term and short term courses and international exchanges involving teachers, students and professionals are encouraged.
15
The Nara Document on Authenticity (1994)
International Council on Monuments and Sites
The ability to verify and authenticate ideas and issues concerning cultural identity and conservation works is of great relevance. Depending on the nature of the cultural heritage, its cultural context and its evolution through time, authenticity judgments may be linked to the great variety of sources of information, and the requirement of scientific analysis to provide supporting evidence. At the 1994 World Heritage Convention held in Nara, Japan, the International Council continued to address the concerns and interests built in the spirit of Venice. It highlighted the irreplaceable nature of cultural heritage, as a source of spiritual, cultural and intellectual property, and our obligations for its protection. An appendix supplements this article, with a list of follow up suggestions and definitions of conservation and information sources.
16
Principles for the Recording of Monuments, Groups of Building and Site Ratified by the 11th ICOMOS General Assembly in Sofia, Bulgaria,
October 1996
International Council on Monuments and Sites Recording is among the principal ways of understanding the unique expressions found in cultural heritage. It serves as an essential element in understanding the framework of human development, and promotes the interest and involvement of people in the preservation of heritage. This article identifies the importance of recording, with a guideline on the planning and recording process, followed by a series of suggestions on the management, dissemination and sharing of records. The various forms of records include photographs, surveys, drawings, photographs, descriptions, accounts, published and unpublished documents.
International Charters for the Conservation and Restoration
17
Declaration of ICOMOS Marking the 50th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of the Human Rights
Stockholm Declaration 1998
International Council on Monuments and Sites The Universal Declaration of the Human Rights recognized the rights of people to freely participate in cultural activities. The responsibilities of individuals and the communities, the institutions and state, were started. Their role is to protect the current rights and preserve the future rights of individuals and the community. In protecting human rights, it affirms the major role of cultural heritage in the life of people. This will ensure the protection of cultural heritage whilst respecting cultural diversity at the same time.
18
The Athens Charter for the Restoration of Historic Monuments Adopted at the First International Congress of Architects and Technicians of
Historic Monuments, Athens 1931
International Council on Monuments and Sites This article presents seven main resolutions – i.e. Carta Del Restauro and a summarized account of the conclusions made at the Athens Congress. These include doctrines and general principles related to the protection of monuments, administrative and legislative measures regarding the historic monuments, aesthetic enhancements of ancient monuments, information on the restoration of monuments, taking precautionary measures to address the deterioration of ancient monuments, the technique of conservation, the conservation of monuments and importance of international cooperation. Customary practices and principles on excavation, protection, conservation and restoration of monuments and historic sites were discussed, reviewed and disseminated along with the strategies of intellectual collaboration and the promotion of contextual artistic and historic values through community heritage education.
Carta Del Restauro
19
Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage
1972
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization This document was prepared in response to the recent interest towards the protection of the world cultural and natural heritage. It presents a list of detailed descriptions of the terms and principles; the methods of applying for funding, and the conditions for international assistance in documenting and conserving cultural and natural heritage. The classification of cultural heritage broadly covers monuments, buildings and sites, while natural heritage relates to biological formations, natural features, geological environments and habitats of threatened species and animals. The role of the UNESCO in organizing this Convention is to ensure the proper identification, protection, conservation, presentation and transmission of cultural and natural heritage for future generations.
20
ICOMOS UK Statement of Principles for the Balanced Development of Cultural Tourism
1997
International Council on Monuments and Sites Cultural tourism provides a solid framework for local communities to expand and develop. The potential contribution of tourism is threefold, benefiting the community, the place and the visitors. Tourism should be recognized as having long-term benefits, so as to be enjoyed by future generations. While mass tourism generates a large source of employment, such economic growth may encourage expansion, so the focus of the paper is geared toward sustainable patterns. Proper treatment of the environment and its resources are highlighted in this article. In particular, an emphasis on the sensitive management of cultural tourism, the avoidance of short-term considerations and the creation of harmony between the community and its visitors is presented. Overall, in the development of tourism, a community ought to continue to explore ways to avoid jeopardizing the natural environment and manmade environment.
21
Burra Charter 1999 The Australian ICOMOS Charter for the Conservation of Places
of Cultural Significance
International Council on Monuments and Sites Revised in 1999 and based on the knowledge and experience of its ICOMOS members, the Burra Chapter provides guidance for the conservation and management of places of cultural significance (cultural heritage places) in Australia. This revision takes into account, the most up-to-date advancements in working with heritage conservation while adopting the insights and involvement of those who have strong associations with a place. The document contains three parts, definitions, conservation principles and conservation processes, with a particular emphasis on management and protection. A flowchart of the Burra Charter Process is presented at the end of this document. This chart has been devised to facilitate decision-making of heritage places and it describes a step by step process of understanding, identifying, recording and monitoring places of heritage significance.
1999
22
2003
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization This document was prepared in consequence to the recent interest and attention towards the safeguarding of the intangible cultural heritage, which led to the UNESCO Convention in 2003. The significance of this topic is highlighted by the fact a Convention was held, to discuss ways to overcome the contemporary obstacles hindering the safeguarding process. Presented in this document, is a series of definitions and elaborated principles, used in the classification process of intangible cultural heritage. It recognizes the typical circumstances faced by the local community, the state, and internationally, such as the deficiency of resources, both division of labor and funds, required for the proper maintenance and management. This guideline hence stipulates the need to promote and to raise the awareness of heritage issues and also to stimulate the interest of both the individual and community. The guideline also pinpoints the issues concerning viability, identification and future protection of intangible cultural heritage.